Test tube removal device and system

ABSTRACT

A device and system for extracting simultaneously a plurality of test tubes from one or more aligned racks is provided. The device is operably adapted to extract test tubes having a body with a first diameter and a top portion with a lip having a second larger diameter. A version of the device includes an extraction assembly including one or more longitudinal slots adapted to receive and slide over the top portion of each test tube forming the longitudinal row, each longitudinal slot comprising laterally spaced and longitudinally extending interior rims, the lateral distance between the rims being greater than the diameter of the body of the test tube and less than the diameter of the test tube top portion flared lip. Thereby, during operation the interior rims grasp and removes each test tube in the respective longitudinal row.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based upon and claims the priority filing date ofthe previously filed, copending U.S. patent application entitled “TESTTUBE REMOVAL DEVICE AND SYSTEM” filed Dec. 10, 2018, having applicationSer. No. 16/215,537, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of test sample analysis testtube transport, particularly a device and system for removing aplurality of utilized test tubes from a plurality of racks aligned in atray.

BACKGROUND

Test tubes are widely utilized in labs for handling, testing, andanalysis of serum containing biological or other fluid materials. Testtubes in the laboratory testing setting are typically made of cleardisposable plastic to be discarded after use thereof. The top of sometest tubes often features a flared lip to aid pouring out the contentstherein.

In laboratories, such as for example clinical laboratories in whichpatient samples are examined and submitted to various in-vitro diagnosistests, test tubes containing samples (such as blood, urine, etc.) haveto be handled in high number and in a cautious but still efficientmanner. For years now, automated procedures with corresponding systemsand devices have been used in this context.

For efficient handling purposes, the tubes are not handled individuallybut placed in storage racks or cassettes. For example, the racks areconfigured to seat at least five upright aligned sample tubes to betested by an analyzer or laboratory testing machine. Each rack comprisesa circular slot having a means for gripping the respective test tubeseated therein. For example, most rack slots have one or more retentionsprings for retaining the respective tube within the slot.

In preparation for testing by an analyzer, the racks are usually placedon rack carriers called trays for further processing such as handling,transporting, and discharging. Typically rack carriers are configured tocarry a plurality of racks which together form a plurality oflongitudinal rows and lateral columns of sample tubes forming arectangular footprint. Ideally, each tray can properly hold thirty (30)racks seating five (5) test tubes—providing a total of 150 tubes amongstthe array. Thus, a typical tray would contain five (5) longitudinal rowsand thirty (30) lateral columns of sample test tubes. Manual handling ofthe trays, especially charging/discharging of storage racks, becomesdifficult when a high number of trays must be handled.

More specifically, the discharging or removal of contaminated test tubesfrom the racks within a tray can be tedious, time consuming, andhazardous if certain precautions are not taken to avoid contact withresidual sample material residing in the tubes. Typically, a labtechnician must load the tray with the plurality of racks containing aplurality of test tubes and then individually remove each sample tube byhand and discard each tube into a designated biohazard receptacle.Thereafter, the empty racks must be flipped over individually andrepositioned back in the tray. Then, the inverted racks are loaded ontoa standard analyzer tray. This process can take upwards of 2 minutes and15 seconds to clear a myriad of test tubes from a standard sized trayhaving a plurality of racks. Thus, unnecessarily wasting the time of thetechnician and substantially increasing the entire amount of timerequired from charging, testing, to discharge of each sample test tube.

For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for an improved device whichhelps to assist in the removal of test sample tubes from racks andtrays.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the invention, a device and system for extractingsimultaneously a plurality of test tubes from one or more aligned racksis provided. The device is operably adapted to extract test tubes havinga body with a first diameter and a top portion with a lip having asecond larger diameter. The aligned racks generally form collectively arectangular footprint and provide opposing longitudinal shoulders. Aversion of the device generally comprises: (a) an extraction assemblyincluding one or more longitudinal slots adapted to receive and slideover the top portion of each test tube forming the longitudinal row,each longitudinal slot comprising laterally spaced and longitudinallyextending interior rims, the lateral distance between the rims beinggreater than the diameter of the body of the test tube and less than thediameter of the test tube top portion flared lip, thereby duringoperation the interior rims grasp each test tube in the respectivelongitudinal row; (b) a frame housing adapted to couple with the one ormore racks, the frame housing including at least a first biasingsurface; and (c) a cam assembly operably attached to the extractionassembly for moving the extraction assembly between a first position anda raised position, the cam assembly including at least a first camoperably positioned proximate the first biasing surface and a leveroperably attached to the first cam for providing rotary motion whichtranslates to linear upward motion of the extraction assembly whilemoving from the first position to the raised position.

In a certain version of the invention, a first handle is attached to thelever, wherein as the handle is caused to move upward, the cam isoperably rotated and biased against the surface, thereby moving theextraction assembly from the first position to the raised position.

In another version of the application, a first and second static handlesare positioned at each opposing end of the frame housing.

In a version, at least one of the first and second static handles isadapted to nest and limit the path of motion of the movable handle whilein the first position.

In yet another version, the first and second static handles are disposedlongitudinally outward beyond the perimeter the frame housing.

In certain versions, the frame housing is formed of a rectangularframework open at a first end, the rectangular framework sized toreceive and seat with the opposing longitudinal shoulders formed by theone or more aligned racks.

In a detailed version of the application, the device comprises (a) anextraction assembly including one or more longitudinal slots adapted toreceive and slide over the top portion of each test tube forming thelongitudinal row, each longitudinal slot comprising laterally spaced andlongitudinally extending interior rims, the lateral distance between therims being greater than the diameter of the body of the test tube andless than the diameter of the test tube top portion flared lip, therebyduring operation the interior rims grasp each test tube in therespective longitudinal row; (b) a frame housing adapted to couple withthe one or more racks, the frame housing including a first and secondopposing laterally parallel biasing surfaces; and (c) a cam assemblyoperably attached to the extraction assembly for moving the extractionassembly between a first position and a raised position, the camassembly including a first pair of laterally disposed cams and a secondpair of laterally disposed cams, the first pair and the second pair oflaterally disposed cams are rotatably attached at opposing sides of theextraction assembly, each pair of cams operably proximate with the firstand second biasing surfaces respectively, a first and second pair oflevers operably attached to the first and second pair of camsrespectively providing rotary motion which translates to linear upwardmotion of the extraction assembly while moving from the first positionto the raised position, and a first and second movable handle attachingeach of the pair of levers together for providing uniform motion of eachpair of cams between the first position and the raised position.

The previous example version may include a first and second statichandles positioned at each opposing ends of the frame housing, whereinthe first and second static handles are disposed longitudinally outwardbeyond the perimeter of the frame housing.

In some versions, each of the first and second static handles areadapted to nest and limit the path of motion of the first and secondmovable handles respectively while in the first position. Moreover, insome versions, the first and second movable handles are disposedlongitudinally outward with respect to the extraction assembly, whereinas the handles are caused to move upward, the respective cam pairs areuniformly rotated and biased against the respective surfaces, therebymoving the extraction assembly from the first position to the raisedposition.

A version of the application includes a system for extracting anddisposing of a plurality of test tubes from one or more aligned rackshaving opposing longitudinal shoulders and form together one or morelongitudinal rows of aligned test tubes, the test tubes having a topportion having a lip having a diameter and a body having a diameter.Generally, a version of the system may include a device comprising: (a)an extraction assembly including one or more longitudinal slots adaptedto receive and slide over the top portion of each test tube forming thelongitudinal row, each longitudinal slot comprising laterally spaced andlongitudinally extending interior rims, the lateral distance between therims being greater than the diameter of the body of the test tube andless than the diameter of the test tube top portion flared lip, therebyduring operation the interior rims grasp each test tube in therespective longitudinal row; (b) a frame housing adapted to couple withthe one or more racks, the frame housing including at least a firstbiasing surface; and (c) a cam assembly operably attached to theextraction assembly for moving the extraction assembly between a firstposition and a raised position, the cam assembly including at least afirst cam operably positioned proximate the first biasing surface and alever operably attached to the first cam for providing rotary motionwhich translates to linear upward motion of the extraction assemblywhile moving from the first position to the raised position; and areceptacle comprising a container for receipt and storage of discardedtest tubes, the container having a top perimeter, and a funnel assemblyincluding a front splash guard and an upper hood portion.

In a version of the system, the funnel assembly front splash guardextends upward and forward of the top perimeter and the upper hoodportion extends from the rear of the container, collectively the splashguard and the upper hood form a gap for receipt and channeling of thetest tubes directly from the removal device.

In other versions of the system, the upper hood further comprises alaterally extending support rod and the device further comprises a pairof laterally disposed hooks which are operably configured to latch withthe lateral support rod.

In yet other versions of the system, a first and second rack carrier isprovided, wherein each rack carrier comprises a flat base and opposingside walls extending upwards forming a rectangular container having adepth, wherein the depth is approximately half of the height of anupright test tube rack.

This disclosure will now provide a more detailed and specificdescription that will refer to the accompanying drawings. The drawingsand specific descriptions of the drawings, as well as any specific oralternative embodiments discussed, are intended to be read inconjunction with the entirety of this disclosure. The test tube removaldevice and system may, however, be embodied in many different forms andshould not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forthherein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustrationonly and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and fullyconvey understanding to those skilled in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with regard to the followingdescription and accompanying figures where:

FIG. 1 is front perspective view of a version of the application;

FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a right-side elevation view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a left-side elevation view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the version shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a rear, bottom perspective view of the version shown in FIG.1;

FIG. 8 is a disassembled, perspective view of the version shown in FIG.1 utilized in combination as a system.

FIG. 9 is an illustrative front perspective view showing the versionshown in FIG. 1 coupled with a tray having racks and test tubes;

FIG. 10 is an illustrative front elevation view showing the versionshown in FIG. 1 while in the process of engaging the racks loaded withtest tubes;

FIG. 11 is a cross section view taken along lines A-A of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view showing the version shown in FIG. 1fully coupled with the racks and plurality of sample tubes;

FIG. 13 is an illustrative front elevation view showing the versionshown in FIG. 1 initiating sample tube extraction;

FIG. 14 is a cross section view taken along lines B-B of FIG. 9;

FIG. 15a is a diagram illustrating the operation and extraction methodshown while in the first position;

FIG. 15b is a diagram illustrating the operation and extraction methodshown between the first position and the raised position;

FIG. 15c is a diagram illustrating the operation and extraction methodshown between the first position and the raised position;

FIG. 15d is a diagram illustrating the operation and extraction methodshown between while in the raised position;

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the test tube removal device after thesample extraction;

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the test tube removal device withextracted sample tubes ready to be discarded;

FIG. 18a is a diagram illustrating a version of the test tube removaldevice and system before attachment to a version of the wastereceptacle;

FIG. 18b is a diagram illustrating a version of the test tube removaldevice and system attached to the version of the waste receptacle;

FIG. 19a is a diagram illustrating a version of the test tube removaldevice and system shown before release of sample test tubes into wastereceptacle;

FIG. 19b is a diagram illustrating a version of the test tube removaldevice and system shown while releasing the sample tubes into the wastereceptacle;

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a version of the test tuberemoval device and system further including a first and second tray forinverting the plurality of racks;

FIG. 21 is a rear perspective view of the first and second traysencapsulating the plurality of test tube racks as shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22a is an illustrative view of the version shown in FIG. 21 as theplurality of racks are inverted;

FIG. 22b is an illustrative view of the version shown in FIG. 22aremoving the second tray from the racks;

FIG. 23 is an illustrative view of the analyzer tray engaging theinverted racks while seated in the first tray;

FIG. 24 is an illustrative view showing a plurality of racks containingused test tube for removal from the analyzer tray to the second tray;

FIG. 25 is a side elevation view of the first tray showing the lateralslots adapted to receive the analyzer tray outcroppings;

FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of a standard test tube rack withemphasis on the means of retaining;

FIG. 27 is an illustrative perspective view of a tray loaded with aplurality of racks with test tubes;

FIG. 28 is an illustrative diagram showing an alternative version of thewaste receptacle upper hood continuous wire framework;

FIG. 29a is a front side elevation view showing an alternative versionof the test tube removal device; and

FIG. 29b is a cross-sectional view of example details of the versionshown in FIG. 29a taken along the lines A-A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, for purposes of explanation and notlimitation, specific details are set forth such as particulararchitectures, interfaces, techniques, etc. in order to provide athorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will beapparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may bepracticed in other versions that depart from these specific details. Inother instances, detailed descriptions of well-known devices and methodsare omitted so as not to obscure the description of the presentinvention with unnecessary detail.

Moreover, the description is not to be taken in the limiting sense butis made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles ofthe invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by theappended claims. Various inventive features are described below that caneach be used independently of one another or in combination with otherfeatures.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the samemeaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art towhich the invention belongs. As used in the specification and theappended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferences unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any referenceto “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwisestated.

Initially with reference to FIG. 1-FIG. 7, a description of a version ofthe invention will be provided and is generally designated as numeral10. Generally, the application is directed towards a test tube removaldevice 10 for assisting lab technicians with removing test tubes 90after analysis and testing by an analyzer or laboratory testing machine.The test tube removal device 10 is generally adapted to remove testtubes 90 in bulk by generating a simultaneous upward movement thereof.

With reference to FIG. 26, the test tubes 90 are not handledindividually but are placed in storage racks 91 or cassettes. Forexample, the racks 91 are configured to seat at least five uprightaligned sample test tubes 90 to be tested by an analyzer or laboratorytesting machine. Each rack 91 comprises a cylindrical slot 92 having ameans for gripping 93 the respective test tube 90 seated therein. Forexample, most rack slots 92 have one or more retention springs 93 forretaining the respective tube 90 within the slot 92.

As illustrated in FIG. 27, in preparation for testing by an analyzer,the racks 91 are placed on rack carriers 80 for further processing suchas handling, transporting, and discharging. Typically rack carriers 80are configured to carry a plurality of racks 91 which together form aplurality of longitudinal rows and lateral columns of sample test tubes90 collectively forming a rectangular footprint. As shown in FIG. 27,ideally, each rack carrier 80 can properly hold thirty (30) racksseating five (5) test tubes—providing a total of 150 tubes amongst thearray. Thus, a typical rack carrier 80 would contain five (5)longitudinal rows and thirty (30) lateral columns of sample test tubes.Moreover, the plurality of racks 91 each have opposing shoulders 70 a,70 b which when aligned collectively form opposing longitudinalshoulders 72 a, 72 b forming the perimeter of the rectangular footprint(See Also FIG. 25).

By way of an improvement to existing rack carriers, a version of theapplication optionally includes a rack carrier 80 which is operablyconfigured to properly hold thirty (30) traditional racks 91 havingseated a plurality of test tubes 90—providing a total of 150 test tubes90 amongst the array. Thus, preferably, the rack carrier 80 wouldcontain five (5) longitudinal rows and thirty (30) lateral columns ofsample test tubes. In a version, the rack carrier 80 comprises a flatbase and four side walls extending upwards forming a rectangularcontainer having a depth. Ideally, the depth of the tray 80 isapproximately half the height of an upright rack 91.

Referring to FIG. 25 and FIG. 26, typically, each test tube 90 comprisesa body 95 and a top portion 96, wherein the body 95 generally has aconstant diameter and the top portion 96 terminates at an upper rim 97and flared lip 98 extending about the upper rim 97. The upper rim 97portion and flared lip 98 provide a greater diameter than the body 95diameter. However, in other versions, test tubes 90 may not have aflared lip 98 and are not required regarding proper function of the testtube removal device 10. FIG. 1 is an illustrative perspective view of aversion of the test tube removal device 10. The version of the test tuberemoval device 10 generally comprises a test tube extraction assembly12, a frame housing 30 and a cam assembly 14. The cam assembly 14includes one or more cams 26 which when biased against the frame housing30 operate to move the extraction assembly from a first position to araised position, thereby simultaneously removing the test tubes 90 fromthe plurality of racks 91.

As best illustrated by FIG. 7, the frame housing 30 is configured tocouple with the top plan footprint of the plurality of racks 90 definedby the opposing longitudinal shoulders 72 a, 72 b as well as providesupport for the test tube extraction assembly 12 and the cam assembly14. In further detail, the frame housing 30 is operably configured andpositioned to provide a fixed surface for biasing one or more cams 26 asthey are rotated between the default, first position and the raisedposition.

In the illustrated version, the frame housing 30 forms a rectangularframework which is open at a first end 33 and closed at the opposingsecond end 35. The frame housing 30 is configured to form a capstructure which fits around and over the collective top portions andopposing shoulders 70 a, 70 b (See FIG. 25) of the plurality of racks 91while loaded in the rack carrier 80. Thus, substantially limiting themovement of the racks 91 and test tubes 90 while providing a pluralityof biasing surfaces 32 for biasing each pair of cams 20, 22 throughouttheir path of motion. In the illustrated version, the frame housing 30includes a first and second opposing laterally parallel static biasingsurfaces 32 a, 32 b (See FIG. 3) The frame housing 30 is constructed toprovide an operable space between a first biasing surface 32 a and asecond biasing surface 32 b for movement of the extraction assembly 12throughout the path of motion.

With reference to FIG. 1, the cam assembly 14 is operably coupled to theextraction assembly 12 for leveraging and moving the extraction assembly12 between a default, first portion and a raised position. Thus, in theversion, the extraction assembly 12 is configured to engage with the topportion 96 of each of the plurality of test tubes 90 by way of a meansfor gripping, and the cam assembly 14 is configured to separate andremove simultaneously the test tubes 90 from each respective rack slots92 by way of linear motion. Other ways of engagement with the test tubes90 can certainly be envisioned, such as by way of a friction type fitabout each test tube top portion 96 outer surface—and thus a flared lip98 would not be required.

In a detailed version of the application and with reference to FIG.9-FIG. 11, the extraction assembly 12 includes opposing transverse sides76, 78 defining a length therebetween and generally includes one or morelongitudinal slots 16 operably configured to receive and longitudinallyslide over the top portion 96 (FIG. 10) of each test tube 90 which formone or more longitudinal rows. Preferably, each longitudinal slot 16 isclosed at a first end 78 and opened at a second end 76. As best shown inFIG. 11, each of the longitudinal slots 16 include laterally spaced andlongitudinally extending and interior rims 18 a, 18 b. Ideally, thelateral distance between the rims 18 a, 18 b is operably configured tobe greater than the diameter of the body 95 of each test tube 90 andless than the diameter of the test tube 90 top portion 96 upper rim 97.Thus, during operation the means for gripping or the or the interiorrims 18 a, 18 b of each longitudinal slot 16 catch on the upper rim 97of each test tube 90 in the respective longitudinal row as theextraction assembly 12 is moved from the default position to the raisedposition.

As best illustrated by FIG. 4-FIG. 9, the splash guard assembly 14 isoperably coupled with the extraction assembly 12 to leverage and movethe extraction assembly 12 between the default, first position and theraised, test tube 90 released position. In a version, the cam assembly14 generally includes a first pair of rotatable laterally disposed cams20 and a opposing mirrored second pair of rotatable laterally disposedcams 22 for translating rotary motion into the linear motion of theextraction assembly 12. Each pair of cams 20, 22 are rotatably connectedto the extraction assembly 12 framework, share an axis of rotation, andare connected to move uniformly together throughout their respectivepaths of motion. A lever 24 is operably connected to each cam 26 withineach cam pair 20, 22 which is operably connected for providing leveragedrotation of each respective cam 26 about their axis. In the version, amovable handle 28 rigidly connects the distal ends of the opposing camlevers 24 within each cam pair 20, 22 in order to provide simultaneousrotation of the cams 26 while providing a movable handle 28 duringoperation.

As shown in FIG. 6, each pair of cams 20, 22 are operably attached tothe extraction assembly 12 at their respective axis of rotation X.Preferably, each axis of rotation X is positioned equidistant frommidpoint M bisecting the length of the extraction assembly 12 and therespective end of the extraction assembly 12. This positioning of eachrespective cam 26 provides the greatest overall lifting power uniformlydistributed amongst the test tubes 90.

As best illustrated by FIG. 16, in a version of the application, theframe housing 30 may further comprise a pair of fixed position or statichandles 34, 36 which are statically affixed and mirrored at the opposingends of the frame housing 30. The static handles 34, 36 are constructedto receive and nest the movable handles 28 while in the default position(See FIG. 9). Further, the static handles 34, 36 function to limit thepath of motion of each respective movable handle 28 at the default,first position which is efficient for handling during transport. In theillustrated version, the fixed position handles 34, 36 are positionedand constructed to extend out of the path of motion of the extractionassembly 12. For example, the first and second static handles 28 aredisposed longitudinally outward beyond the perimeter of the framehousing 30, Similarly, the first and second movable handles 28 aredisposed longitudinally outward with respect to the extraction assembly12. Thus, as the movable handles 28 are caused to move upward, therespective cam pairs 20, 22 are uniformly rotated and biased against therespective static biasing surfaces 32 a, 32 b, thereby moving theextraction assembly 12 from the default, first position to the raisedposition.

Referring to FIG. 9-FIG. 17, operation of the test tube removal device10 will now be described in detail. Firstly, a rack carrier 80 loadedwith a plurality of racks 91 (See FIG. 24 and FIG. 26) is provided whichboasts an array of contaminated test tubes 90 in the upright position asdescribed above. FIG. 10 illustrates how the device 10 is longitudinallypositioned and engaged over the upper portions 96 of the test tubes 90.Namely, the extraction assembly 12 which includes one or morelongitudinal slots 16 aligns and coordinates with the longitudinal rowsformed by the array of test tubes 90, positioning each test tube 90 rim97 above the respective interior rims of the extraction assembly 12 andwithin each longitudinal slots 16, FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectionof the device 10 and extraction assembly 12 engaged with eachlongitudinal row of test tubes 90 by way of each longitudinal slot 16.FIG. 9 and FIG. 12 illustrate the device 10 and extraction assembly 12while in the default position.

Referring to FIG. 13-FIG. 15, the device 10 is shown to move through apath of motion from the default position (FIG. 15a ) to the raised,extracted position (FIG. 15d ). As illustrated by FIG. 13, the operatoractuates the cam assembly 14 by grasping the opposing first and secondmovable handles 28 and rotating inward, thereby translating therotational movement of the cams 26 into the linear upward movement ofthe extraction assembly 12. Throughout the movement of the extractionassembly 12 from the default, first position to the raised, extractedposition, the rims 18 a, 18 b catch on the upper rim 97 of each testtube 90 within the longitudinal slot 16, thereby lifting the pluralityof test tubes 90 simultaneously (FIG. 15c and FIG. 15d ). The test tubes90 are lifted a distance D1 (FIG. 14) which should be greater than thedistance D2 between the bottom 89 of the cylindrical slot 92 of eachrack 91 and the point of release from the means of retention 94. Oncethe bottom of each test tube 90 body 95 has cleared the means ofretention 94 for each slot 92, the plurality of test tubes 90 arereleased from the plurality of the racks 91 within the rack carrier 80(See FIG. 16). Thereafter, the test tubes 90 can be collectivelytransported to a biohazard receptacle by sloping the removal device 10which is described further below.

In alternative embodiments, auxiliary devices may be utilized to work inconjunction with the removal device 10 as a system. For example, FIG.17-FIG. 19 illustrate a uniquely configured receptacle 200 for disposingof the test tubes 90 after extraction which is tailored to work inconjunction with the removal device 10. As best illustrated by FIG. 17,the receptacle 200 generally comprises a container 202 for receipt andstoring of discarded test tubes 90 and a splash guard 204 for assistingin safely channeling test tubes 90 released from the removal device 10.

In a version, the funnel assembly 204 generally comprises a front plashguard 206 and an upper hood portion 208. The front splash guard 206extends upward from the front top perimeter 207 of the container 202 andwraps partially around the sides thereof. The upper hood portion 208extends forward from the rear and has sides 210, 212. Collectively, thesplash guard 206 and the upper hood 208 form a gap 209 for receipt andchanneling of the test tubes 90 directly from the removal device 10. Incertain versions, the forward extending upper hood 208 terminates withan exposed removal device 10 lateral support rod 214 designed to couplewith the removal device 10 while discarding the test tubes 90 into thewaste receptacle 200. In the illustrated version, the removal device 10further comprises a means for attaching to the support rod 214. In theillustrated version, the means for attaching is a fixed position handle36 which incorporates a pair of laterally disposed hooks 40 which areoperably configured to latch with the lateral support rod 214 (See FIG.18a and FIG. 18b ). As best shown in FIG. 19a and FIG. 19b , after theremoval device 10 hooks 40 are coupled with the support rod 214, theopposing end is lifted upward which creates a slope within the one ormore longitudinal slots 16 of the extraction assembly 12. Naturally, theplurality of the test tubes 90 slide uniformly down each longitudinalslot 16 and safely fall without splash back into the receptacle 200.

Referring to FIG. 20-FIG. 27, certain versions of the system may includea first and second rack carrier 80, 82 for purposes of inverting theempty plurality of racks 91, in order to load them on an analyzer tray99 which is customary in the field of analyzer machines (See FIG. 23).Inverting the racks 91 by using only a first rack carrier 80 is timeconsuming and daunting. Therefore, a unique supplemental second rackcarrier 82 is provided in order to easily rotate the plurality of racks91 into the desired inverted position for loading. In a version, thesecond rack carrier 82 is placed on top of the empty racks 91 asillustrated by FIG. 21. The rack carriers 80, 82 each comprise opposingend handles 84 which form a unitary handle once both encapsulate theracks 91. Thereafter, the operator can easily rotate or flip over theracks 91 into an inverted position as shown by FIGS. 22a and 22bexposing the composite rack slot 103 adapted to receive the analyzertray 99 rail 100 for loading.

As illustrated by FIG. 25, in the version, the rack carriers 80, 82 mayfurther comprise forward lateral notches 86, 88 strategically positionedfor receiving loaded racks 91 from an analyzer tray 99 which customarilyhave lower extending outcrops 101, 102.

FIG. 28 illustrates an alternative embodiment in that the wastereceptacle 200 funnel assembly 204 can be structured with a continuouswired frame 300. The continuous wired frame 300 may include a rearattachment member 314 and a front attachment members 312 which acttogether to attach the frame 300 to the top perimeter 209 of the wastereceptacle 200. Moreover, the wired frame 300 integrally includes thelateral support rod 310 for attachment to the test tube removal device10.

FIG. 29a and FIG. 29b illustrate an alternative cam assembly 414 whichgenerally provides frame housing 430 with one or more biasing surfaces432 formed within a channel 450. Essentially, the bottom surface of eachchannel 450 provides the biasing surface 432 of each respective cam 426.This configuration aids in better alignment of the test tube removaldevice 410 throughout the operating range of motion. Moreover, in theversion, the extraction assembly 412 and the frame housing 430 boastsloped transverse ends 476, 478.

Different features, variations and multiple different embodiments havebeen shown and described with various details. What has been describedin this application at times in terms of specific embodiments is donefor illustrative purposes only and without the intent to limit orsuggest that what has been conceived is only one particular embodimentor specific embodiments. It is to be understood that this disclosure isnot limited to any single specific embodiments or enumerated variations.Many modifications, variations and other embodiments will come to mindof those skilled in the art, and which are intended to be and are infact covered by both this disclosure. It is indeed intended that thescope of this disclosure should be determined by a proper legalinterpretation and construction of the disclosure, includingequivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon thecomplete disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A test tube removal device for extracting aplurality of test tubes from one or more aligned racks having opposinglongitudinal shoulders and form together one or more longitudinal rowsof aligned test tubes, the test tubes having a top portion having a liphaving a diameter and a body having a diameter, the device comprising:an extraction assembly including one or more longitudinal slots adaptedto receive and slide over the top portion of each test tube forming thelongitudinal row, each longitudinal slot comprising laterally spaced andlongitudinally extending interior rims, the lateral distance between therims being greater than the diameter of the body of the test tube andless than the diameter of the test tube top portion flared lip, therebyduring operation the interior rims grasp each test tube in therespective longitudinal row; a frame housing adapted to couple with theone or more racks, the frame housing including at least a first biasingsurface; and a cam assembly operably attached to the extraction assemblyfor moving the extraction assembly between a first position and a raisedposition, the cam assembly including at least a first cam operablypositioned proximate the first biasing surface and a lever operablyattached to the first cam for providing rotary motion which translatesto linear upward motion of the extraction assembly while moving from thefirst position to the raised position.
 2. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising a first handle attached to the lever, wherein as the handleis caused to move upward, the cam is operably rotated and biased againstthe surface, thereby moving the extraction assembly from the firstposition to the raised position.
 3. The device of claim 2, furthercomprising a first and second static handles positioned at each opposingend of the frame housing.
 4. The device of claim 3, wherein at least oneof the first and second static handles is adapted to nest and limit thepath of motion of the movable handle while in the first position.
 5. Thedevice of claim 4, wherein the first and second static handles aredisposed longitudinally outward beyond the perimeter the frame housing.6. The device of claim 5, wherein the frame housing is formed of arectangular framework open at a first end, the rectangular frameworksized to receive and seat with the opposing longitudinal shouldersformed by the one or more aligned racks.
 7. The device of claim 1,wherein the frame housing is formed of a rectangular framework open at afirst end, the rectangular framework sized to receive and seat with theopposing longitudinal shoulders formed by the one or more aligned racks.8. A test tube removal device for extracting a plurality of test tubesfrom one or more racks having opposing shoulders and form together oneor more longitudinal rows of aligned test tubes, the test tubes having atop portion having a lip having a diameter and a body having a diameter,the device comprising: an extraction assembly including one or morelongitudinal slots adapted to receive and slide over the top portion ofeach test tube forming the longitudinal row, each longitudinal slotcomprising laterally spaced and longitudinally extending interior rims,the lateral distance between the rims being greater than the diameter ofthe body of the test tube and less than the diameter of the test tubetop portion flared lip, thereby during operation the interior rims graspeach test tube in the respective longitudinal row; a frame housingadapted to couple with the one or more racks, the frame housingincluding a first and second opposing laterally parallel biasingsurfaces; and a cam assembly operably attached to the extractionassembly for moving the extraction assembly between a first position anda raised position, the cam assembly including a first pair of laterallydisposed cams and a second pair of laterally disposed cams, the firstpair and the second pair of laterally disposed cams are rotatablyattached at opposing sides of the extraction assembly, each pair of camsoperably proximate with the first and second biasing surfacesrespectively, a first and second pair of levers operably attached to thefirst and second pair of cams respectively providing rotary motion whichtranslates to linear upward motion of the extraction assembly whilemoving from the first position to the raised position, and a first andsecond movable handle attaching each of the pair of levers together forproviding uniform motion of each pair of cams between the first positionand the raised position.
 9. The device of claim 8, further comprising afirst and second static handles positioned at each opposing ends of theframe housing.
 10. The device of claim 9, wherein each of the first andsecond static handles are adapted to nest and limit the path of motionof the first and second movable handles respectively while in the firstposition.
 11. The device of claim 8, wherein the first and secondhandles are disposed longitudinally outward with respect to theextraction assembly, wherein as the handles are caused to move upward,the respective cam pairs are uniformly rotated and biased against therespective surfaces, thereby moving the extraction assembly from thefirst position to the raised position.
 12. The device of claim 11,further comprising a first and second static handles positioned at eachopposing ends of the frame housing, wherein the first and second statichandles are disposed longitudinally outward beyond the perimeter of theframe housing.
 13. The device of claim 12, wherein each of the first andsecond static handles are adapted to nest and limit the path of motionof the first and second movable handles respectively while in the firstposition.
 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the frame housing isformed of a rectangular framework open at a first end, the rectangularframework sized to receive and couple with the opposing longitudinalshoulders formed by the aligned one or more racks.
 15. The device ofclaim 8, wherein the frame housing is formed of a rectangular frameworkopen at a first end, the rectangular framework sized to receive and seatwith the opposing longitudinal shoulders formed by the aligned one ormore racks.
 16. A system for extracting and disposing of a plurality oftest tubes from one or more aligned racks having opposing longitudinalshoulders and form together one or more longitudinal rows of alignedtest tubes, the test tubes having a top portion having a lip having adiameter and a body having a diameter, the system comprising: a devicecomprising: an extraction assembly including one or more longitudinalslots adapted to receive and slide over the top portion of each testtube forming the longitudinal row, each longitudinal slot comprisinglaterally spaced and longitudinally extending interior rims, the lateraldistance between the rims being greater than the diameter of the body ofthe test tube and less than the diameter of the test tube top portionflared lip, thereby during operation the interior rims grasp each testtube in the respective longitudinal row; a frame housing adapted tocouple with the one or more racks, the frame housing including at leasta first biasing surface; and a cam assembly operably attached to theextraction assembly for moving the extraction assembly between a firstposition and a raised position, the cam assembly including at least afirst cam operably positioned proximate the first biasing surface and alever operably attached to the first cam for providing rotary motionwhich translates to linear upward motion of the extraction assemblywhile moving from the first position to the raised position; and areceptacle comprising a container for receipt and storage of discardedtest tubes, the container having a top perimeter, and a funnel assemblyincluding a front splash guard and an upper hood portion.
 17. The systemof claim 16, wherein the funnel assembly front splash guard extendsupward and forward of the top perimeter and the upper hood portionextends from the rear of the container, collectively the splash guardand the upper hood form a gap for receipt and channeling of the testtubes directly from the removal device.
 18. The system of claim 17,wherein the upper hood further comprises a laterally extending supportrod and the device further comprises a pair of laterally disposed hookswhich are operably configured to latch with the lateral support rod. 19.The system of claim 16, further comprising a first and second rackcarrier, wherein each rack carrier comprises a flat base and opposingside walls extending upwards forming a rectangular container having adepth, wherein the depth is approximately half of the height of anupright rack.